They say the only thing permanent in this world is change. This is true for historical places that are often overlooked, but people don’t realize that many things have been added, removed, improved, or destroyed through the years. Humans have been engulfed in their lives that they fail to notice the alterations in their surroundings. Luckily, there’s such a thing as “rephotography,” commonly known as the “then and now” snapshots of places with many years in between them. Let’s see how historical sites changed—for the better or worse!
Dubai - 1985 Vs. 2016
When talking about developed cities in the Middle East, Dubai is at the top of my mind. Founded in 1833, the nation wasn’t as wealthy as today. According to Conde Nast, there was only one skyscraper in 1991, but this ballooned to over 200 many years later, and these pictures sum it up.
Urbanization definitely played its role in modernizing the city, which is home to Palm Jumeirah, the biggest man-made island in the world. It is so massive that it can be seen from space.
Prague - 1910 Vs. 2020
Prague is home to some of the most beautiful streets in the world, including Nerudova, as seen in these pictures. It’s amazing how the citizens managed to keep it almost the same as many decades ago, which is one of the reasons why tourists flock to this area.
Founded in 1267 by Přemysl Otakar II, Nerudova used to be called Ostruhová Street. PragueHere noted that it was renamed after the famous writer, Jan Neruda, with his house named “At the Two Suns.”
Los Angeles - 1901 Vs. 2001
When people talk about Los Angeles, they immediately think about the bustling streets, palm streets, and tall buildings. In 1901, the city pretty much didn’t have a lot of structures, a far cry from today. The metropolitan eventually gained its reputation for being a world-class location after it was only seen as a large village.
Unfortunately, Los Angeles has been suffering from photochemical smog since the 1940s, perhaps due to overpopulation, ranges, and climate. However, the government has enacted laws to address the problem.
Flatiron Building - 1917 Vs. 2012
The Flatiron Building is a triangular-shaped building that fits the wedge property at an intersection. Standing 307 feet tall, the 22-story structure was erected in 1902 and became popular for its odd shape. However, due to its unconventionality build, people were concerned about its safety.
Well, it remains a magnificent structure to this day and has become a tourist attraction. Its popularity also attracted business owners in the area. As can be seen in these pictures, some of the buildings added a few floors, but pretty much a lot of things have been the same.
Lombard Street, San Francisco - 1922 Vs. 2018
San Francisco, California is home to some of the most beautiful sceneries in the world, including the Golden Gate Bridge. Lombard Street, a crooked road, is also famous for having sharp hairpin turns that seem impossible to drive in.
Dubbed the most crooked street in the world, this landmark is sandwiched with intricate landscaping and mansions that further attract tourists. It was developed in the 1920s after residents expressed concern for pedestrians because of the dangers of the steepness of the road. Luckily, it did become a famous spot in the city.
Tokyo - 1945 Vs. 2016
One photo seemed to have come from a dystopian film while the other appeared to have been taken from a Lego creation. Japan is one of the most developed Asian countries and these pictures of Tokyo, which have at least 37 million residents, are proof of that.
Originally named Edo, Japan’s capital has the busiest intersection, known as the Shibuya Crossing, where five crosswalks are situated. The city is highly urbanized and developed that it became the first nation outside the United States to have its own Disneyland.
Mount Rushmore - 1922 Vs. 2018
When people think about the United States, the first thing that pops into their heads is the Statue of Liberty. However, another recognizable symbol of the nation is Mount Rushmore, which features four presidents Abraham Lincoln, Thomas Jefferson, George Washington, and Theodore Roosevelt. But this monument didn’t happen overnight.
However, it was named after Charles E. Rushmore, who saw the site and was impressed by the granite peak. Gutzon Borglum had a lot of ideas for the project, changing his models nine times before the final product.
Mayan Temple of Kukulcán - 1892 Vs. 2020
Once upon a time, the famous Mayan Temple of Kukulcán in Chichen Itza didn’t show the magnificence that people know of today. The structure was almost entirely covered by shrubs, but this picture had long been erased from our minds.
It was tagged as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1998 and declared one of the New Seven Wonders of the World in 2007. Believed to have been constructed in the 400s A.D., the pyramid-like temple stands almost 100 feet high.
University of Montana - 1860s Vs. 2018
The University of Montana stands in Missoula, Montana, the same land where indigenous people used to camp at. While a structure has been erected in the area, what didn’t change is the picturesque background of a hillside with distinct striations.
That’s because there used to be a lake there where the waves cut the benches, resulting in the strandlines, which also symbolized the level changes as the years went by. The inhabitants have, of course, been gone from the place as well.
Rio De Janeiro - 1880 Vs. 2020
It’s no secret that life was simpler back in the day, and this was true for all countries. In Rio de Janeiro, there used to be fewer structures and cars. However, the most noticeable is the Christ The Redeemer statue at the top of Mount Corcovado.
The colossal structure, which is perhaps the most recognizable symbol of the South American country, stands 98 feet. An engineer named Heitor da Silva Costa was credited for the design and began the construction in 1926.
Lincoln Memorial - 1922 Vs. 2016
The Lincoln Memorial monument, built in 1922, remains to be one of the most iconic landmarks in the United States because it is a much-visited historical site. It was erected in honor of the 16th president, Abraham Lincoln, the man in the $5 bills.
While tourists often get a picturesque backdrop of the waterworks in front of the monument, it wasn’t always the scene. Back in the day, Lincoln Memorial was surrounded by grasslands, and so much has changed. Plus, guests probably don’t realize that the walls tilt inward!
Big Oak in Thomasville Georgia - 1895 Vs. 2020
While many items on this list showed just how drastic changes can happen in a span of time, the photos of the big oak tree in Thomasville, Georgia prove that other things remain the same. For over 300 years, the branches of the tree continue to grow in different directions.
As a Live Oak, the tree faced multiple branches sagging and eventually breaking due to their weight. Its location at an intersection was disadvantageous because careless drivers have also plowed into it, but it lived on.
Chernobyl - 1964 Vs. 2011
The 1986 nuclear power plant explosion in Chernobyl left the place uninhabitable. Due to the radioactive particles that scattered in the area and nearby cities, citizens were hastily evacuated from the place called the exclusion zone.
The exclusion zone includes Pripyat City, where this once thriving facility called Lazurny was teeming with patrons. Located beside a school, this establishment had pools for guests to enjoy. Unfortunately, it is now an abandoned place that is often photographed for its eerie factor.
New York Harbor - 1937 Vs. 2017
Considered one of the biggest harbors in the world, the New York Harbor offers a breathtaking view of the concrete jungle from then until now. It also offers a temporary quiet from the bustling noise of the states. Many people spend a lot of time recreationally fishing because there are a lot of bluefish and striped bass.
Unfortunately, due to the shipping business, water pollution has become a persistent problem. A 2019 study showed that the Lower New York Bay area has the highest quality of water.
National Parks - 1903 Vs. 2018
Many places around the globe crave vast, beautiful, sacred national parks, mountain ranges, and forests. Those who grew up around such things may take them for granted. The 26th U.S. president, Theodore Roosevelt, may have been many things, but he understood the intrinsic value of preserving national parks.
His legacy of protecting natural resources, forests, parks, and public land has seen America preserve more than 220 national reserves. Refreshingly, his initiative protected over 230 acres of public land, and these treasures can't be harmed.
San Diego - 1927 Vs. 2020
Just like most states, San Diego has become teeming with houses. From these images, we can tell that the water seemed to have been pushed back in order to accommodate bigger spaces for residents. Impressively, what remained the same is the Spanish mission structure in the middle!
San Diego is more than just its pristine beaches, it’s also lauded for its harbor seals. The creatures have maintained a colony in La Jolla’s Children’s Pool Beach since the 1990s, so it’s normal to spot them on a typical day.
Hollywood Sign - 1920s Vs. 2020
Avid TV and movie viewers are probably familiar with this sign because it has been featured far too many times. Situated in Mount Lee, Hollywood Hills, it originally read “Hollywoodland,” which was meant to be an ad for a housing development in the 1920s.
By the 1940s, the sign removed the word “Land” after the developers gave it to the city, which then refurbished and gave it a needed makeover. When the letters began to deteriorate in the next decades, Hugh Hefner sought other celebrities’ help to save the sign.
Pablo Escobar's Plane in Salt Water - 1985 Vs. 2020
Before and after pictures sometimes show us crazy things that may not even manifest the passage of time when we look around. Looking at these pictures, it can be confusing how things haven't changed much since one of Pablo Escobar's smuggling planes sank in salt water in 1985.
The 2020 picture shows the Curtiss C-46 Commando, Escobar's business transport plane, lying near the Bahamas' Norman's Cay. Since metals are naturally susceptible to corrosion, water containing dissolved salt speeds up the process, as in this case.
Town Square, Uelzen Germany - 1945 Vs. 2021
Imagine a place you've lived your whole life, having previously been threatened or flattened out by something like war. That's exactly what happened a long time ago, especially in Europe, where everything seemed to be connected to the land. Many people died while magnificent buildings were destroyed.
This black and white picture merged perfectly with the 2021 image since it's the same place except for the difference in timelines. The earlier shot was taken in April 1945 at the battle of the Rhine during WWII.
Pluto - 1994 Vs. 2019
This is not a joke. The planet Pluto used to be seen like this blurred image, pretty much a “Minecraft”-version. The Hubble Space Telescope made it possible to see what it looks like in the 1994 image, but through the years, we have come to know more about it, thanks to better equipment.
According to NASA, the agency’s New Horizons spacecraft was able to capture Pluto’s most accurate color in 2015. From the image, the planet’s “heart,” Sputnik Planitia, was visible. Interestingly, Pluto’s name came from an 11-year-old girl.
Family Farm - 1900 Vs. 2000
There are always fond memories of family homes, especially when they stay with us through generations with minimal changes. Looking at these two pictures, the owners must have drawn and continue to draw deep emotional feelings owing to their attachment to them.
This property has been with the family for more than 125 years, and oddly enough, the window atop the front door has been the bedroom of three generational owners and counting. Refreshingly, the windmill gave way to a lush green environment.
Sears Home Kit - 1919 Vs. 2016
We bet you've heard people say things are not made like they used to be! As much as it can be applicable in many situations, it perhaps best describes housing and construction. Why? Nowadays, few things seem built to last.
Sears, a department store, sold "build your own home" kits through its catalog, much like this 1916 pictured house. It's invigorating to see such residences still standing and thriving, albeit with slight modifications to reflect modernity. That's the power of sturdy building materials.
The Golden Cross Inn - 1819 Vs. 2021
Some places in the world have gone through a lot of changes but have managed to maintain their first look. For example, in England, this type of phenomenon has existed in most of its landmarks for some time. A case in point is the Golden Cross Inn.
This legendary structure in Coventry has more or less kept its 1819 image, although with the introduction of some electric lighting and street signs. Most things around it have remained the same with modifications.
Fresh Prince Basketball Court - 1990 Vs. 2016
Film and television show directors always want their work to be as authentic as possible, and what better place to film a basketball scene than on an actual basketball court? And that's the route the "Fresh Prince of Bel-Air" crew took.
This person managed to find the exact court used in the film, and what a pleasant surprise it was! Even more interesting, more about the court in Clemente Park and Playground seems to have stayed the same since the film's 1990 production.
Brandenburg Gate - 1989 Vs. 2022
The world we know today underwent historical events to shape it that way, whether they were good or bad. One historical defining factor was the Berlin Wall's collapse between 1989 and 1994, especially for the Germans.
People were freed from being trapped on either side of the wall and could now see Berlin in all her beauty. The Brandenburg Gate was, and still is, one of the major attractions of the city, with this picture showing its transformation over the years.
Machu Picchu, Peru - 1915 Vs. 2020
The discovery of unique places worldwide continues, yet those already concealed are wondrous places. In Peru, excavation began in 1912, leading to the unearthing of Machu Picchu by different archaeologists who continued with this exercise into the '40s.
The "lost" city of the Incas is 75% original construction, and it has helped many guests understand the region better, being the most visited Peruvian landmark. Given that it sits 7,000 feet above sea level, the location is a "no-fly above" zone.
Milan, Italy - 1950s Vs. 2021
Do you ever wonder how these magnificent and grand cathedrals, churches, and buildings came about? Add to that the fact that building materials were scarcer and less efficient than they are now. More startling is the attention to detail in construction. Milan, Italy, has such beautiful structures.
Although these pictures, taken nearly 70 years apart, show the exact location, the buildings have remained the same, with only the multilane road undergoing some changes to become a people's walking square. The place is the city's geographical and social gathering center.
Berlin Wall - 1989 Vs. 2020
Kids didn’t experience seeing this wall, called the Berlin Wall, built between the east and the west from 1961 to 1989. Spanning 27 miles long, the structure was the answer to escape attempts, especially because there were attack dogs nearby.
According to History, there were 5,000 successful attempts but 140 were killed in trying to get out. Due to the success of massive demonstrations, the Berlin Wall was destroyed. Today, tourists can see cobblestones on the very spot where the wall once was.
Detroit Restoration - 1993 Vs. 2021
The Victorian era of architecture heavily affected some parts of the world with its signature beautiful Victorian-style homes seen in most corners of major cities. The one-of-a-kind structure has excellent trimmings and, of course, attention to detail. But even the most meticulous homes can crumble without restoration.
Between 1993 and 2021, this beautiful Victorian-style home in Detroit was lucky enough to undergo restoration, as the two pictures show. It's only one of many landmarks earmarked for redevelopment, with the city embarking on refurbishing eyesore historic structures in 2022.
Van Gogh's "Cafe Terrace at Night" - 1888 Vs. 2021
Not everyone can be a successful artist, but some famous world artworks represent real scenes from actual places. With that in mind, anyone can technically relive these paintings in real life. One such popular painting is the 1888 Van Gogh "Cafe Terrace at Night" masterpiece, painted in Arles, France.
The real café artwork covered people sitting and sipping their espresso while Vincent Van Gogh went about producing this incredible work. It's impressive how the original painting and the recent one have similar colors years later.
Colosseum
The hauntingly beautiful Colosseum in Rome is one of the many tourist attractions in Italy, and it is worth a visit. It is not only the largest ancient amphitheater ever built, but it was also reused as a quarry and shrine, leaving behind a lot of history.
Over the years, some parts of the landmark have been destroyed by the elements, but it still stands strong, as it will for years, thanks to the renovation efforts of various public and private stakeholders.
Hick's Court, St Ives, England -1888 Vs. 2021
In art, it's baffling how a little color and a change of scenery can alter a lot in a picture. Someone looking at an old photo way before their time may find it hard to imagine ever being there. Combining such images with colored versions brings them to life!
Between 1611 and 1624, George Hick, a social portraitist, and Victorian-era painter, called this home, hence Hick's Court. This wonderful historical residence even has a plaque by the archway stating who owned it.
Church St. Martin, Cologne, Germany - 1946 Vs. 2021
The effects of WWII undeniably left people reeling from rebuilding and restoring many damaged streets and buildings. Sadly, the war either diminished or seriously mutilated historical structures that meant a lot to people. These structures took years of hard work and attention to detail to complete.
Churches weren't spared by the warfare either, including the Church of St. Martin in Cologne, Germany, which became inadvertently affected. Luckily, the much-needed restoration came along, and as seen in this 2021 photo, it sure got more than its former glory.
Afternoon Art Gallery Visit - 1800s Vs. 2000s
Much like going to the cinema, families used to visit art galleries together. It doesn't matter how much time has passed, though, as the practice has persisted. The world looks different from the 1800s, 1900s, and 2000s, but certain cultural practices look familiar across the periods, even over 100 years later.
This modern family spent their afternoon at an art gallery, just like the 1800s family on the left. Apart from the color and dress, other things are similar even though these are two different time periods.
The Royal Crescent, Bath, England - 1829 Vs. 2020
While some countries have enjoyed years of living with modern architecture, others have just recently, as in a few hundred years, introduced theirs. By modern, we refer to using present-day building materials and structures. The Royal Crescent in Bath, England, doesn't fall into this category.
It was constructed between 1767 and 1774, and it's known for forming 30 graded-listed crescents of houses. This seemingly timeless structure is a famous film and period drama location and not a government building as some may think.
Court of the Lions, Granada, Spain - 1840 Vs. 2021
We bet you've encountered a building that isn't only so old but also beautiful beyond comprehension. It happens that such structures are plentiful around the world, and they've retained their great shapes over the ages thanks to their careful upkeep and restoration.
This image shows the timeless Court of Lions situated in Granada, Spain. It hasn't changed much except for the color scheme, elevated refurbishment, and the greenery around it. This 124-white marble column-supported oblong courtyard was the preserve of the ruler and his mistresses.
The Royal Mile, Edinburgh, Scotland - 1847 Vs. 2021
It's always magical to compare an old photo of something with its modern-day appearance. This comparison helps in appreciating the changes that have taken place and examining the quality of the pictures. Without even going far, these pictures of the Royal Mile in Edinburgh, Scotland, perfectly describe what we mean.
The first image is so old that someone can mistake it for a pencil drawing until it's placed against the modern picture. It comes to life, showing the paved footpaths as the most significant change.
Buenos Aires, Argentina Over Time - 1925 Vs. 2021
These four different time frames perfectly describe what a decade can do in one's life or to buildings in cities. They showcase how a strong foundation can form the basis on which something can be bettered without necessarily getting rid of it.
This is Argentina's city of Buenos Aires, showing a glimpse of its transformation from 1925 to 2021, based on one iconic building. What stands out is that the architectural foundation of the structure wasn't altered but became the modification base.
The Arch of Constantine, Rome, Italy - 1943 Vs. 2021
Some of the unique landmarks we come across today look nothing like they do now. So, to help us understand their history, tales and photos come into play, like this 1943 shot of the Arch of Constantine. It's an ancient structure built in 315 AD.
Imperial Rome's last great monument has undergone so many changes that the former roads surrounding it are no longer there, being replaced with a walkway. The largest remaining Roman triumphal arch is a tourist destination, pulling in large crowds and revenue.
St. Francis of Assisi Church, Brazil - 1880 Vs. 2020
Much like today, the church was an integral part of formulating societal norms and culture in the olden days. The worship places were expertly built with outstanding artistry, as seen in this 1880 picture of St. Francis of Assisi in Brazil.
Almost 150 years later, the same structure remains a duplicate of the original except for a few changes around it, including magnificent landscaping. Had the first shot been black and white, it would have shown a massive difference between the shots.
Outdoor Theatre, Bucharest, Romania - 1916 Vs. 2016
A chance meeting with an older person may challenge your definition of fun and understanding of culture. Why so? They learned a lot through theater performances staged in iconic places like this outdoor amphitheater in Bucharest, Romania. Unfortunately, such wise minds are often shrugged off.
However, we have to agree with them since this picture represents a scenario of people having a lovely time in a building with exceptional architectural detailing. It's a shame what the last over 100 years have done to this majestic place.
Main Entrance to Tivoli, Copenhagen, Denmark - 1900 Vs. 2018
Some of the world's existing major cities have been in place for so long that it's easy to forget the transformations they've gone through to look like they are today. Thankfully, some of them have been stored in pictures, so we can appreciate the magic of change.
In 1900, people accessed Tivoli in Copenhagen, Denmark, through this entrance; note their traditional outfits. Over a century later, the same access has turned into a daily life street, filled with people and vehicles. Oh, and the dress code has changed too!
Abraham Lincoln's Home, Springfield, Illinois - 1861 Vs. 2021
It's hard to imagine how certain U.S. presidents lived back then, given how recent presidents have lived affluent lives in the glamorous White House. Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president of the United States, lived in this modest and humble abode from 1844 to 1861.
The 1839-built structure was by far one of the most expensive and lovely then, but it has since become a preserve of the Lincoln Home National Historic Site. The institution has done well in sprucing it up to have a beautiful modern look.
Baker St Underground Railway Station - 1863 Vs. 2021
Can you imagine that in 1863, there was street congestion in London? The problem was so severe that Baker Street Station was built to address it. It's one of those things we live to enjoy today, although they existed way before us.
This underground railway station was the first of its kind across the globe, making it the world's oldest underground train station. Refreshingly, its structural integrity has stayed put. Even the glaring modern changes it has undergone haven't affected it much.
Grand Central Station Terminal, New York City - 1912 Vs. 2021
Anyone who's become dependent on today's construction technology may never appreciate the magnificent buildings, cities, and train stations of old. Everything must have taken so much time to look as they do. Indeed the effort was worth it, with the structures still standing timelessly.
Look at this 1912 photo of the Grand Central Station terminal in New York City against itself in 2021. Can you even tell the difference? Well, apart from the first one lacking color, the station hasn't aged a day.
The City of York Entrance - 1865 Vs. 2015
Although it's no longer practiced, most major cities had controlled entrances back in the day, around 200 years ago. In fact, such orderliness helped to enforce behavior, unlike today, when our ways of life have affected cultural behaviors. Many would not understand how things worked before.
The first picture shows the entry point to the City of York in England, captured in 1865. How things have changed. In 2015, the old passageway was a buzz with various activities, looking like a medieval relic structure.
Stonehenge, Salisbury Plain, England - 1877 Vs. 2019
In the Salisbury plains of England lies the magnificent Stonehenge, which is believed to date back to 5,000 years ago. It's one of those prehistoric landmarks people may find hard to believe or comprehend their existence, however hard they try to understand.
This monument remains the only surviving stone circle globally, and it's the most architecturally sophisticated arrangement you can ever find around. Looking at the two pictures fills us with an overwhelming sense that it has and will continue to exist for the rest of time.
Manhattan Bridge - 1908 Vs. 2021
Some landmarks are so famous that it's hard to imagine that there was a time when they didn't even exist. One such well-known spectacle is the Manhattan Bridge in New York, seen here in two different timelines. The 1908 image shows the bridge in its initial construction stages.
In 2021, the image was totally different, with all manner of modernity around it. It took the combined efforts of 600 workers, a $15 million budget, and 14 years to finish this 6,000-foot-long masterpiece.
Hong Kong - 1964 Vs. 2016
The striking contrast between these two images shows just how urbanization affects the environment. Not only did the buildings seem to grow, but the blue skies also appeared to have vanished as well as new structures emerged.
Hong Kong’s Kowloon Peninsula has become notorious for its nightlife, which glistened with massive neon signages throughout the streets. Also called the “dark side,” the area is heavily populated, hence, the structures extend toward the mountain sides. However, travelers are in for a treat because of the hole-in-the-wall establishments.
Singapore - 2000 Vs. 2016
Singapore’s fast-paced development doesn’t go unnoticed. The World Bank even touted the country as one of the most livable and economically stable nations, thanks to its aggressive focus on manufacturing and industrialization. The British controlled the nation for 100 years before it became independent in 1963.
As these photos suggest, the Asian nation was careful about developing its resources and maintaining some green areas within major cities. According to ThoughtCo, Singapore has the busiest transshipment port, beating Rotterdam and Hong Kong.
Chicago - 1926 Vs. 2011
From Lake Michigan, this is the view of the Chicago skyline. Nothing much has changed except that the building somewhat grew taller! This is quite interesting because, according to a blog on Medium, the city was “hydraulically raised” to a few feet to address a drainage issue.
Known as the Railroad Capital of the United States, Chicago has more than 1,300 trains that take passengers and goods to and from the city. The highly urbanized state enjoys over 50 million visitors every year.
Amazon Rainforest - 1994 Vs. 2004
The Amazon Rainforest is 1.4 billion acres of the most biodiverse land in the world, spanning six South American countries. It is home to the most exotic animal species, which face the threat of losing their habitat, as these photos show.
A DW report from 2022 claims 17% of the rainforest had been destroyed by fires or deforestation for the establishment of cattle ranches, dams, and mines. According to The Conversation, there is a dire need for a solution to the destruction, or 40% of Amazon will be gone by 2050.
The Quelccaya Ice Cap - 1983 Vs. 2008
Glaciers are a big deal in the world's water supply, as they hold almost three-quarters of the world's fresh water. In that regard, the Quelccaya Ice Cap is the most extensive tropical glacier in the world, thanks to its 5,600 meters of height and 44 square kilometers of extension in southeast Peru.
However, the glacier has its share of troubles, as these pictures show. Over the years, it has lost more than a fifth of its area to melting, and the second picture shows how the cap's largest outlet, Qori Kalis, has undergone a drastic transformation.
Folsom Lake - 2011 Vs. 2014
These side-by-side images look like they're of different places, except they're not! They show the effects of California's historic drought, which ran from 2012 to 2016, on Folsom Lake.
The images show the difference between the lake's 97% capacity and 17% capacity within three years. It was a massive drop for a lake that supplies water for over half a million people in the surrounding area, and the effects were clearly felt. Since then, the state has adapted and found ways to tackle the problem if it arises.
The Aral Sea - 1973 Vs. 2009
The Aral Sea is hardly talked about in the same vein it was back when it was the fourth-largest inland sea in the world. Located at the border between Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, a large section has dried up for the first time in 600 years.
The drastic change is reportedly due to the diversion of the two rivers that feed the sea by the Russians in the 1950s. While the diversion was for cotton irrigation in the surrounding areas, this once enormous water body drying up has done more harm than good.
Muir Glacier - 1890 Vs. 2005
Alaska is the land of beautiful natural wonders, such as Muir Glacier, which has been an attraction since the 19th century. However, it has undergone a massive transformation over the years, as seen in these photos, and it's nothing Alaska would be proud of.
Since 1904, the glacier has reportedly broken through the mountains and retreated by 44 kilometers by 2004. As a result of calving, numerous icebergs can constantly be seen in the Muir inlet created by the ocean water, which has filled the valley and replaced the ice.
Lake Mead - 1983 Vs. 2021
Lake Mead is a large reservoir on the main stem of the Colorado River. Even though it had been the primary source of water and electricity at Hoover Dam, it began to dry up due to a drought that has gone on for more than 20 years.
The main contributors to Lake Mead's decrease in water levels have been population growth, drought, and climate change. These photos show the difference in the water over the years. Thankfully, the levels are slowly going back to what they used to be.
Dear Childhood Photo
Most people would give anything to rekindle some of their best childhood memories, and photographs are often the best way to do it. That idea inspired Canadian artist Taylor Jones to come up with the "Dear Photograph" project.
The project collected photos from the past and present. This person held up a picture of himself in his childhood home, showing how it hadn't changed much. He put the caption, "Dear Photograph, I looked good in a tux," and we couldn't agree more.
Arctic - 1898 Vs. 2003
The signs and effects of climate change have manifested in numerous ways over the years. These pictures of the Arctic 105 years apart are just another proof of the glaring danger, as the difference is clearly visible.
In the first picture, we can barely see the mountain range behind a wall of glaciers, but the second one tells an entirely different story of how the ice has melted, taking with it a natural habitat for several species, from polar bears to seals.
La Manga de Mar Menor
La Manga in Murcia, Spain, is a seaside split that separates the Mediterranean from the Mar Menor. Known initially as Palus, it was a bay opening to the sea, but it underwent industrialization into a significant tourist attraction, which has been to great effect.
Since it was discovered and transformed in the 1960s, La Manga has had its fair share of troubles, including the occasional rise in water levels, as seen in the second picture. Nevertheless, it has remained a renowned international water-based sports station thanks to the protected waters.